The opening number, Yorkshire , introduces the cast and sets the tone for the show's musical style — witty, conversational and full of uplifting melodies and empowering high notes.

You can't help but get drawn in to the lives of the ladies of the Knapely Women's Institute. You recognise your own family and friends in them — aunts, family friends, teachers.

Listen to the show's opening number:

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In Scarborough , when Annie Clarke (played by Joanna Riding) sings about trips to the coast, arguing over margarine in Tesco and all the normal things we take for granted, the familiarity of the words makes the subsequent scenes even more painful.

But while many in the audience (including myself) shed a tear on more than one occasion, The Girls' empowering crescendo is more likely to prompt tears of joy.

This was no ordinary WI calendar — this was determined, inspirational women coming together to honour a great man, help their friend through a devastating loss and show the world exactly what they're made of.

Chris, made instantly lovable by Claire Moore, is the best friend every woman needs — loyal, confident, a bit mad — but an absolute rock. The chemistry between Chris and Annie had you in stitches one minute and fighting back the tears the next.

The penultimate scene — shooting the calendar — was the flamboyant finale everyone had been waiting for, and superb performances from the WI girls (including an unforgettable late arrival by Ruth (Debbie Chazen)) had the audience cheering them on all the way.